I Ching Oracle Result: Transformation from Hexagram 8 with Changing Lines 5 to Hexagram 2
Yì Jīng’s Response: Hexagram 8.5 -> 2
8. Holding Together (比 Bǐ)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☵ Kǎn (Water)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 8
Hexagram 比 (Bǐ) represents union, closeness, and collaboration. It suggests that holding together with others leads to success. The hexagram emphasizes loyalty, cooperation, and the importance of working together toward a shared goal. It also highlights the importance of choosing the right companions to achieve unity.
Hexagram 8 Judgment
"比，吉。原筮，元永贞，无咎。不宁方来，后夫凶。"
(Bǐ, jí. Yuán shì, yuán yǒng zhēn, wú jiù. Bù níng fāng lái, hòu fū xiōng.)
“Holding together brings good fortune. Seek advice with sincerity. Persistence furthers. No blame. Those who are late will face misfortune.”
This hexagram emphasizes the benefits of coming together in cooperation. Seeking advice with sincerity and remaining persistent brings success. However, those who fail to join the group or act too late will face difficulties and misfortune.
Hexagram 8 Image
"水上有地，比。君子以朋友讲习。"
(Shuǐ shàng yǒu dì, bǐ. Jūn zǐ yǐ péng yǒu jiǎng xí.)
“There is land above the water: The image of Holding Together. The superior person takes time to teach and reflect with friends.”
The image of land above water suggests stability and support. Just as the land supports the water, relationships and cooperation provide strength. The superior person uses this time to engage with friends, sharing knowledge and mutual support.
Line 5 Changing
"显比，王用三驱，失前禽，邑人不诫，吉。"
(Xiǎn bǐ, wáng yòng sān qū, shī qián qín, yì rén bù jiè, jí.)
“The leader holds together openly. The king uses three hunts, but loses the game. The people of the city do not reproach him. Good fortune.”
This line speaks of a leader who holds the group together openly and fairly. Even if some opportunities are lost, the people do not criticize, as they trust the leader’s integrity. In the end, good fortune follows from unity and trust.
Changing to:
2. The Receptive (坤 Kūn)
Trigrams
- Above
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
- Below
- ☷ Kūn (Earth)
The Symbolism of Hexagram 2
Hexagram 坤 (Kūn) represents the primal receptive force of the universe, the yin to Qián's yang. While Qián is active and creative, Kūn is passive, yielding, and receptive. This hexagram symbolizes the Earth, which nourishes and sustains all things by following the natural order. In human terms, Kūn reflects qualities of devotion, nurturing, and acceptance. It complements Qián's strength, providing the supportive framework necessary for growth and creation.
Hexagram 2 Judgment
"元亨，利牝马之贞。"
(Yuán hēng, lì pìn mǎ zhī zhēn.)
“The Receptive brings sublime success, furthering through the perseverance of a mare.”
The Receptive's power lies in its ability to yield and respond to the Creative. The metaphor of the mare signifies an animal that follows the lead of others but still possesses strength, agility, and endurance. In human terms, this hexagram advises being adaptable, knowing when to take a supportive role rather than leading. Success will come not from asserting one's own will, but from responding to the natural flow of events with wisdom and perseverance.
Hexagram 2 Image
"地势坤，君子以厚德载物。"
(Dì shì kūn, jūn zǐ yǐ hòu dé zài wù.)
“The earth's condition is receptive devotion. Thus the superior man who has breadth of character carries the outer world.”
The earth, with its capacity to carry and nurture all things, symbolizes the virtue of receptivity. Just as the earth sustains all living things without discrimination, the superior person develops broad-mindedness and a willingness to support others. This is not a position of weakness, but one of strength that comes from humility and service. It suggests that those who embrace their role as supporters and nurturers can wield immense influence.
Peace and wisdom on your journey!
With gratitude,
The I Ching Team